Richmond, CA Short-Term Rentals: Taxes & Fees (2026)

Richmond Municipal Code Chapter 7.04 imposes a 10% Transient Occupancy Tax on the total rent paid by every transient guest staying fewer than 30 consecutive days. The tax applies to hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts, and short-term rentals alike. Operators are defined to include homeowners, property managers, and hosting platforms that receive rent. Returns and tax payments are due monthly or quarterly depending on volume, and late filings accrue penalties of 10% of the tax due plus 1.5% monthly interest, capped at statutory limits. Fraudulent returns or willful non-collection can result in additional penalties up to 25%. Several major hosting platforms, including Airbnb, have voluntary collection agreements with California cities; hosts should verify whether their specific platform remits TOT to Richmond directly or whether they must self-report. Cleaning fees and mandatory service charges are generally included in taxable rent; refundable security deposits are not. Stays of 30 consecutive days or more to the same guest are exempt, as are stays by federal employees on official business with proper documentation.